Soul City Solar Community Grants Support STEM Education and Local Initiatives

Apex Clean Energy is proud to announce more than $30,000 in grants to 8 community organizations through the Soul City Solar Community Grant Program. A major focus of this round of grants is supporting STEM education and workforce development, among other local priorities.

“We are so excited about the work that these grant recipients are doing throughout Hinds County," said Brian O'Shea, Director of Public Engagement at Apex Clean Energy. “They are taking the initiative to seize workforce development opportunities, support Hinds County students, and make meaningful improvements to their communities."

“We are grateful for the continued support of Soul City Solar and Apex Clean Energy! Their financial commitment ensures that students studying STEM-related fields have access to scholarships throughout their academic journeys,” said Matthew Jones, Vice President of Advancement & Executive Director of the Hinds County Community College Foundation.

Spring 2026 Grant Recipients:

Hinds County Public Schools - Renewable Energy Apprenticeship Program ($10,000)
Hinds Community College - McKenzie Arena Building Improvements ($5,000)
Hinds Community College Foundation - Soul City Solar STEM Scholarship ($4,000)
Town of Bolton - Clean & Green Community Clean-up ($2,500)
Toot, Teach & Roll - STEAM on Wheels ($2,500)
MS Food Network - Backpack program ($2,000)
Hinds County School District Foundation ($2,000)
Mt. Elizabeth MB Church - Outreach Program ($2,000)

“This grant gives our students at Raymond High School a meaningful head start by transforming potential into real opportunity through hands-on training, industry-recognized credentials, and direct exposure to a growing field.”- William Martin, Career Coach, Raymond High School

“We are thankful for the support from Soul City Solar for helping strengthen our efforts in providing scholarships for disadvantaged youth. Educating our church family and community in health and mental health programs will ensure a better and safer environment." — Pastor Bernard McKinley, Mount Elizabeth Church of Bolton

“We are grateful to Soul City Solar Community for supporting our STEAM on Wheels initiative. This investment helps us bring creative, hands-on learning experiences into communities, while also exposing students to technology and future career pathways. Together, we are helping students learn and begin to envision what’s possible for their future.” — Andrea Jones-Davis, Toot, Teach, & Roll Foundation

"Grant funds will support continued improvements to McKenzie Arena, helping modernize the facility and expand its usefulness for college programs, events, and community engagement." — Facilities Director Mark Stanton, Hinds Community College

"This support means more than just resources—it reflects a shared commitment to community pride, environmental stewardship, and creating a cleaner, stronger Bolton for our families." — Bolton Mayor Alisa Butler-Kidd

Since launching the program in 2024, Soul City Solar has contributed over $300,000 to Hinds County community organizations, including local schools, churches, libraries, public service agencies, and other community initiatives. To learn more about the program, or apply for a future grant cycle, visit www.soulcitysolarpower.com/grant.

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